College gets high grade in report

May 1, 2008

Updated: Tuesday, May 25, 2010 (09:32)

HUNTINGDONSHIRE Regional College is moving in the right direction, according to its Ofsted report, published last week. The Huntingdon-based facility, which had more than 5,500 enrolments in 2007/08, was commended for its leadership, professional staff an

HUNTINGDONSHIRE Regional College is moving in the right direction, according to its Ofsted report, published last week.

The Huntingdon-based facility, which had more than 5,500 enrolments in 2007/08, was commended for its leadership, professional staff and potential to improve.

Inspectors praised HRC's provision in the areas of health and social care, engineering and motor vehicles and visual/performing arts.

Principal Anne Constantine said: "We are very happy with this Ofsted report and the large number of 'good' grades awarded this time.

"It is a credit to the hard work and aspirations of our students, our staff and our partners, who are all supporting the college to be among the best in the region."

Another popular course at the college, hair and beauty therapy, was rated satisfactory, while student inclusion and provision for vulnerable students was described as good.

The college was praised for its links with local schools and for the training offered to the employees of more than 460 companies who currently use HRC for training.

Areas for improvement outlined by Ofsted included more use of work experience, target-setting - particularly individual learning plans - and teaching of theory.

While the leadership and management of the college was said to have improved since its last inspection in 2004, overall support for students was not as strong as previously.

This year's inspection - which was carried out in February - may be the last for HRC at its present home in California Road.

Last October the college submitted a planning application to build a brand new facility at Hinchingbrooke - a proposal the inspectors backed in the report.

Mrs Constantine said: "We intend to build on this Osfted report in our plans for the new college, which should open its doors in three years time.